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How To Scrunch Your Hair For Defined Curls

We all have our methods for getting those super-defined curls, whether it’s a multi-step process or a quick and easy wash and go.

13 Aug 2021

Knowing how to style and take care of curly hair is a key part of natural hair care. Depending on your curl type, you might have to adjust your method for defining your curls. For example, if you have a tighter curl pattern, you might try out twist-outs, braid-outs, or no-heat hair curling tools. The wash and go method is perfect for tighter patterned hair as well. However, if you have type 2 curls or wavy hair, we have a must-try hair method for you: scrunching.

Scrunching is the best way to get defined curls on curly and wavy hair and it’s easy to do. This method is perfect for frizz-free, defined curls on looser curl patterns. There’s also more than one way to scrunch hair. For more on how to scrunch curly hair and what hair types scrunching is best for, read on.

What Is Scrunching?

So let’s start with what exactly scrunching is. Scrunching is a hairstyling method where you cup and squeeze your hair in your hands or a towel to help shape your curls. The method is non-damaging to your hair and allows for volumized, defined, and frizz-free curls. Scrunching your hair can be an easy way to add extra definition to your curls without heat or too much product. You can define your curls and waves without heat damage or spending hours on your hair.

Should You Scrunch Curly Hair?

If you have type 1 or 2 hair, the answer is yes, you should scrunch your hair! The method is easy to do and doesn’t damage your hair. If you have thin or fine hair, scrunching your hair is a great way to add volume and definition. Fully convinced and ready to try it out? Read on for our tips on how to scrunch hair and start dreaming up all the scrunch hairstyles you can do.

Find Your Personalized Routine!
Know your curls better than ever before! Our quick and easy 5-step quiz, which uses powerful data to determine your hair type, will help you understand your strands. Set aside a couple of minutes to answer some simple questions, and we’ll take care of the rest. At the end, we’ll identify your curl type and main hair concerns, and provide expert tips, product recommendations, and a personalized routine. The journey to gorgeous hair starts now. Click Here to find your personalized routine.

What Is The Best Way To Scrunch Your Curls?

Scrunching your hair is a few steps, but we promise it’s easy and you can work it into your regular hair care routine. The best way to scrunch hair is whatever way works for you. You can scrunch your hair and let it air dry or use your favorite diffuser and blow dryer for quicker results. However, there are a few things to know and products to have on hand when it comes to scrunching your hair. We’ve broken the different methods down into a few simple steps.

Get Your Hair Wet

Whether it’s freshly washed or refreshed with your go-to mister bottle and water, your hair should at least be damp to get started. The best time to scrunch your hair is after washing. Keeping your hair damp will help shape and define curls, as well as help keep frizz at bay. You’ll want to avoid styling dry waves and curls as this can promote frizz. Just like you wouldn’t brush curly hair dry, you should also style it dry. Dry hair also won’t be as easy to shape and manipulate, so scrunching freshly washed hair is your best bet.

For type 2 hair, you want lightweight natural hair products that won’t weigh your hair down. Grab your Cactus Rosewater Sulfate Free Shampoo and Cactus Rosewater Lightweight Conditioner for a gentle cleanse and added volume. If you’re not sure what kinds of products to use, be sure to check out our guide on how to wash curly hair.

Detangle and Apply Products

Next, you’re going to want to add in a few curly hair products to moisturize, hold, and define your curls. You’ll need a leave-in conditioner and a volumizing mousse. You can detangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush and a leave-in conditioner like Pracaxi Nectar Wash N’ Go Leave-In. Once your hair is detangled, you can smooth and comb your Pracaxi Nectar Style & Hold Foam into your hair. The right products are key to getting the best results no matter how you plan on drying your hair.

Start Scrunching

Now the fun part! Starting with the ends of your hair, gently squeeze a handful of your hair in your palm, working upwards toward the root. Scrunch your hair up in your hand in sections. Repeat this step until you’ve scrunched all of your hair around your head and up to the roots. Let it air dry and occasionally scrunch a few parts again for more definition as it dries. You can also scrunch your hair with a microfiber towel to avoid frizz and excess moisture. It also helps dry your hair in preparation for blow drying.

You can scrunch your hair with a blow-dryer with a diffuser attachment if you don’t want to air dry your hair. After following the same steps, blow-dry your hair on low heat when it’s at least 70 percent dry to avoid any heat damage, and be sure to use a heat protectant spray. Diffuse your hair upside down to add even more volume. Add extra hold with a lightweight hairspray like the Monoi Ora Flexible Volume Spray. It’s that easy to scrunch hair.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of scrunching your hair, it’s time to try out some scrunch hairstyles and some low maintenance hairstyles to complement your new look.

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